World Oyster Day (celebrated annually on August 5th) is a celebration of one of the sea’s greatest delicacies – the oyster. But for the Whisky connoisseur and seafood enthusiast alike, there’s a rising trend worth savouring: pairing oysters with coastal Scotch Whisky.
Among the most exquisite matches this year? The new Rock Island 16 Years Old Sherry Edition – a maritime masterpiece that makes a stunning companion to freshly shucked oysters.
The Magic Behind Coastal Scotch & Seafood
The Whisky regions of Orkney, Jura, Arran, and Islay are known not just for their windswept beauty, but for producing some of Scotland’s most characterful coastal malts. With whispers of salt spray, brine, and warming spice, these whiskies naturally complement the clean, mineral-forward taste of oysters.
And when it comes to the best Whisky with oysters, maritime malts lead the charge – balancing the oyster’s richness with contrast and complexity.
Introducing Rock Island 16 Years Old: A Salty-Sweet Coastal Symphony
This limited-edition blended malt Scotch whisky is Douglas Laing’s first Rock Island bottling to bear a 16-year-old age statement – and it’s worth the wait.
ABV: 46.8%
Vol: 70cl
Maturation: Predominately in Spanish Sherry casks
Whisky Regions: Orkney, Jura, Arran, Islay
🥃 Tasting Notes:
Nose: Dried fruits, subtle sea spray
Palate: Layers of walnuts, nutmeg, and malted depth
Finish: Honeycomb, toasted almonds, gentle oak
Whether you’re a Whisky explorer or searching for the ultimate oyster day Whisky pairing, Rock Island 16 delivers a maritime malt that’s both elegant and robust.
Why It Works: The Science of the Pairing
- Oysters bring salinity, minerality, and creaminess. Rock Island 16 Years Old brings:
- Sweet dried fruit and spice from Sherry cask maturation
- A gentle coastal smokiness from Islay & Jura malts
- Malty depth from Orkney & Arran whiskies
The result? A harmonious contrast of land and sea, where richness meets restraint, and savoury meets sweet.
Whisky for Seafood Lovers: How to Pair It Right
- Here’s how to get the most from your Rock Island 16 & oysters experience:
- Serve oysters chilled, with a light squeeze of lemon – or au naturel
- Pour a dram of Rock Island 16 in a tulip glass, neat
Take a sip before and after the oyster to explore how the flavour evolves
Pair with oysters from Loch Fyne, Brittany, or Maldon, known for their clean, briny character
Optional twist? A dash of Rock Island in an oyster mignonette.
Celebrate World Oyster Day in Style
If you’re planning a World Oyster Day celebration, Rock Island 16 Years Old is the coastal Scotch Whisky you’ll want at your table. Its age, flavour, and unique island provenance make it a standout not just for whisky collectors – but for anyone looking to elevate their seafood pairing.
🛒 Shop Rock Island 16 Years Old Now
Raise a toast to the sea.
Uncork the coastal.